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Colts owner Jim Irsay dies at age 65

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated May 21, 2025 8:02 PM ET

Longtime Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has died at the age of 65, the team announced on Wednesday.

The Colts shared a statement via social media on Wednesday that left the sports world shocked. The team said that Irsay “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Wednesday afternoon.

“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon. Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed,” the team said in its statement.

pic.twitter.com/TZg4kMpdAj
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 21, 2025

Irsay’s X account was active prior to his death. Earlier in the day Wednesday, he had sent a note of encouragement wishing the Indiana Pacers well in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Knicks.

“Go PACERS. Good luck to Herb, the entire @Pacers organization, and our city!” Irsay had written.

Go PACERS. Good luck to Herb, the entire @Pacers organization, and our city! ❤️
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) May 21, 2025

Irsay inherited the Colts from his father Robert, who had acquired the franchise in 1972. Robert moved the team from Baltimore to Indianapolis, and put son Jim in charge as general manager in 1984. He became the team’s owner in 1997 following the death of his father.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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